Learning disability annual health check engagement

This report was published by Healthwatch County Durham in March, 2017.

The study was completed between October and November 2016 and involved members of the public with learning disabilities. Healthwatch asked people about their awareness of health checks for those with learning disability.

Some GP practices did respond to Healthwatch about the issue, their response is included.

Conclusions:

It is apparent that there are some barriers to accessing health checks,from the comments received through the survey it was identified a large proportion of people with a learning disability are still not aware that they are entitled to an annual health check. In total 14 respondents told us they did not know about health checks and seven said they had not been offered a health check which is 21% of all respondents.There is a need for health care professionals to use appropriate communication techniques and methods to ensure they maximise the opportunity for patients to access this valuable service. For example, using an easy ready format in their publicity, sending it out as a reminder in a friendly format or offering checks in other venues

Summary of recommendations:

- All eligible patients should be contacted to offer a health check in an appropriate and user friendly manner. Any letters sent should be in an easy read format.

- GP surgeries should be encouraged to share best practice to maximise the uptake of health checks.

- The use of peer groups to promote health check uptake should be encouraged.

- Where necessary GP surgeries should consider using alternative venues to offer health checks which may be less intimidating for people with learning disabilities who are reluctant to go to surgeries.

- HWCD should monitor the data produced by NHS England to identify whether the uptake in County Durham is improving.